Scoliosis

What causes Scoliosis?

These include:

1. Functional (Non-structural) Scoliosis
   • Compensatory – uneven leg length, anatomical asymmetry
   • Postural – muscle imbalance, dominant side use
2. Structural (Anatomical) Scoliosis
   • Idiopathic (Genetic)
     • Adolescence – most common type approximately 90% of cases. Usually occurs around age 10 to skeletal maturity
     • Juvenile – approximately 9% of cases. Usually occurs around age 3-10 in female more than male
     • Infantile – approximately 1% of cases. Usually occurs less than age 3 in males more than females
   • Congenital such as a defect in the structure in the vertebrae i.e. hemivertebrae or in certain syndromes
   • Neuromuscular such as brain lesions
   • Connective Tissue Disorders such as Marfan’s Syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
   • Trauma such as a fracture or surgery
   • Vertebral tumors
   • Metabolic causes such as rickets and osteomalacia

Who usually presents with a Scoliosis?

Research shows:

• People with a scoliosis were found to have a higher self-reported rate of arthritis and poorer perception of their overall health, body image and ability to participate in vigorous activities
• Scoliosis may result in varying degrees of chronic aches and pains that can be reduced though continuing conservative care such as Chiropractic, Massage, Physiotherapy and Exercise
• Clinical outcomes are linked to the curve magnitude so early detection is key

If I have a Scoliosis, what can I do?

If you have been screened, and are aware of the severity of your scoliosis, you can try:

• Ice/heat to the affected area of discomfort
• Stretching
• Exercise